The leading netball players in East Gippsland will all head into the 2024 finals in peak form after scoring convincing final round victories.
Ladder leader Lucknow continued on its winning way, scoring a hard-fought nine goal victory over a gallant Orbost Snowy Rovers, whose efforts were enough to maintain their place in the top four, ensuring they will see finals action this week.
It was a tough ask with a finals spot on the line for Orbost to battle with the imposing Lucknow, who have taken all before them in 2024, only beaten once.
The Blues gave a good account of themselves, taking the game right up to the Magpies in the patches, but Lucknow was steadier under pressure, making less mistakes.
Emma Sanford, Ali Redenbach, Hayley Morton and coach Erica Lynch were all in outstanding form for the Magpies, while Jewel Catlin, Hollie Patterson and Lauren Treacy all head into the finals in good knick for Orbost.
Lucknow’s second semi final opponent, Wy Yung, proved too good for Lakes Entrance.
Wy Yung shot out to an early lead with Lakes Entrance adjusting to a new line-up.
The Seagulls reduced the lead late in the first quarter but Wy Yung countered and led by eight at the break.
The Tigers’ accurate shooting was hard to suppress with their goalies working well together while Lakes’ poor passing caused costly turnovers as the margin increased to 19 at half time.
The Seagulls worked hard in defence but had no answer to the Tigers well drilled side and despite a better final quarter, Wy Yung proved too good on the day, winning by 24 goals.
Among the best players for Lakes were Brianna Thewma, Poppy Carroll and Indi
Allen.
Third-placed Boisdale Briagolong tuned up for its finals campaign with a solid hitout against Lindenow, who at times have showed they aren’t far off the top sides when it all comes together.
The Cats were well in the game at half time, trailing but just a goal, before the Bombers lifted the tempo in the second half, drawing away to win by 14 goals.
Stratford smashed a hapless Paynesville by 77 goals, but it wasn’t enough to get then into the final four.
The Swans missed out by eight per cent, despite their spectacular win.
Sarah Bishop, Nellie Hunt and Chloe Smith led the way for the Swans, while Marley Goodall, Darcie Garth and Rylee Pardew all tried hard for the Gulls, Pardew stepping up from “C” grade and certainly not looking out of place.